This report shows what action the government is taking to provide better access to care in mental health services within the next year, including national waiting time standards for the first time. It also sets out its vision for further progress by 2020.

From April 2015, the following will be guaranteed:

treatment within 6 weeks for 75% of people referred to the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies programme, with 95% of people being treated within 18 weeks

treatment within 2 weeks for more than 50% of people experiencing a first episode of psychosis

Targeted investment will also help people in crisis to get effective support in more acute hospitals.

This plan will start to ensure that mental and physical health services are given equal priority by 2020.